When COVID-19 sent entire nations into quarantine, computer novices and tech nerds alike discovered that the world wasn’t as out of reach as they may have thought.
World travelers could still tour museums, groupies could stream concerts, and theater lovers could watch Broadway shows. While some of these experiences charged a fee, many cost nothing, and most of these online adventures remain only a web search away.
1. A Fan Connection
Before the pandemic, many lesser-known musicians took advantage of opportunities to stream live performances online. When worldwide tours and concerts were canceled, bigger-name artists followed suit, providing an intimate connection with fans. Even as concerts resume, experts expect artists to continue interacting with their fans online.
2. Museum Art
Art enthusiasts can tour the British Museum in London, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, or the Guggenheim in New York City—all without leaving the comfort of their living rooms. Museum tours are offered by a host of online platforms, including Google Arts & Culture, Amazon Explore, and the museums themselves.
3. On Bus, Bike, or Foot
Virtual tours are available for many major cities around the world. From the comfort of the couch, adventure seekers can drive through downtowns or stroll through neighborhoods. Rickshaw rides, shopping experiences, ferry excursions, and cuisine explorations are only a few of the almost unlimited options available.
4. Gospel Living
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints joined the effort to provide online content, including tours of historic sites, virtual streaming of Church-sponsored performances, and video calls with the missionaries. In addition, online missionary efforts have increased and continue in conjunction with traditional door knocking.
5. Nature at Its Best
The breathtaking beauty of the world can be seen through a computer screen via virtual tours, photo galleries, and 360-degree videos. Mother Nature lovers can tour Yellowstone National Park or enjoy the grandeur of Mount Everest. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg; many more stunning natural experiences can be found.
6. A Mouse Education
While remote or distance learning had started well before the pandemic, the sudden forced transition to online education expanded the virtual educational possibilities. Online courses on a variety of subjects are available for students of all ages to enjoy a taste of something new—or even to earn a degree.
7. Worldwide Stage
Theatergoers were thrilled when recordings of popular Broadway shows were released during the 2020 shutdown. Opportunities to stay in touch with the stage—by watching everything from Shakespeare and musicals to dramas and comedies—can still be found online for those who can’t make it to Manhattan.
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Written by Shirleen M. Saunders
